Thorpe Lea Dental Practice


	Patient Information Leaflet

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White Fillings


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	Q What are amalgam fillings? Amalgam or silver fillings are the metal coloured mercury containing fillings that many people have. Amalgam was the traditional material used for fillings for many years. Q Why should I consider white fillings? Most people have fillings of one sort or another in their mouths. Nowadays fillings are not only functional, but can be natural looking as well. Many people don’t want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile because they are more conscious about the way they look.

Q How much do they cost?

Please see our current Pricing Information for Guidance.

Q Life expectancy of white fillings?

White fillings have historically been considered less long lasting than silver amalgam fillings. But there are now materials available with properties comparable to silver amalgam, and these are proving to be very successful. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. Your dentist can advise you on the life expectancy of your fillings. If a restoration is particularly large then it may not be a suitable long term option but there are more extensive restorative options.

Q Is it worth replacing my amalgam fillings with white ones?

It is usually best to change fillings only when your dentist decides that an old filling needs replacing. If so you can ask to have it replaced in a tooth-coloured material.

Q What are tooth-coloured fillings made of?

Unlike metal amalgam fillings which contain mercury as one of its main constituents, white fillings are mercury free and are mainly made of glass particles in a synthetic resin and a light activated setting material.